Rugby Southland is pleased to announce first five-eight Marty McKenzie will be joining the Southland Stags franchise for the 2019 Mitre 10 Cup Season, kicking off in August.

Marty, who is currently contracted to the Chiefs super rugby side, has a history in Southland, having been born and raised in Gore and playing several seasons for the Stags. He also made appearances with the NZ Under 20’s and Maori All Blacks.

Head Coach Dave Hewett said “It’s great to have a player with his experience at Super Rugby level in what is quite a young Stags side. He’ll replace the experience that James Wilson brought last season”

McKenzie is excited about his return South. “It’s an exciting time for Rugby Southland, the team have made some huge progress and I’m confident that we’ll have a good season…It’ll be good to be back home and wearing the Southland Jersey again”.

Rugby Southland General Manager Brian Hopley says it’s a real win for the union, “Marty is a talented and sought after first five, so it’s great to have him back in the region for 2019”

Article added: Tuesday 29 January 2019